It
is first encounter since Diego Simeone's men beat their neighbours to
lift the Copa del Rey in May, and Lopez admits he is relishing the
prospect of another battle with their cross-city rivals.

"It's a
game with a huge rivalry attached and we're looking forward to it.
They're matches where you see plenty of spirit and passion. It's a game
where you fight to give your best and come away with three points," he
continued.

"Real Madrid always have to win, and we cannot allow
ourselves to slip up in any game, especially in our own stadium. Every
game is unique for me but I always try to approach them in the same way.

"We're
up against a very dangerous team. They have a very strong group,
they're united and they know how to play well. We have to exploit their
little deficiencies and impose our own quality on them.

"I hope we win, but above all, I hope it's a good game."

Finally,
the Spanish goalkeeper revealed his admiration for coach Carlo
Ancelotti and believes the team is beginning to adapt to the Italian's
methods.

"The main thing I've noticed has been the
professionalism of the group [since Ancelotti's arrival]," added the
31-year-old. "He has enormous talent, and what we're learning from him,
his way of organising the group ... little by little the team is
adapting to what he wants." --------------- goal.com